Q:  What is a "house concert"?

A:  A "house concert" (as we use the term) is a music concert that takes place in someone's home. It's just like going to a club or other music venue, except for being someone's house. Generally, house concerts offer an opportunity to experience music performed live in a very intimate setting, where everyone has the equivalent of a "backstage pass" to meet the artists.

Q: Why would a musician want to perform in someone's living room?  Are these just people who can't get "real" gigs?

A:  There are many reasons why talented, high-demand artists who also play commercial gigs enjoy playing house concerts.  For many, it's an excellent opportunity to perform in a space where the patrons are very attentive and usually quite appreciative.  Sometimes it's a great way for a performer to fill in an evening between other engagements in the same geographic area.  In many cases, a performer can make more from a well-attended house concert where all voluntary donations go to that performer than from a commercial booking where the house gets paid first. And yes, some of these are performers just starting out in their career who do house concerts to build an audience and get exposure.

Q: Do you offer food or drink at the event?

A: We offer a modified potluck at all events (which means, we buy some of the food and guests bring some as well). The potluck includes beer, wine, soft drinks, savory snacks, and desserts. There is no charge for food or drink.

Q:  Do you allow children at your house concerts?

A:  We welcome teens or mature tweens to our shows, although the suggested donation amount is the same as for adults. Upon request, we can arrange for babysitting for younger kids (2-10) in our downstairs rec room and split the cost among the attendees.

Q: Do you make any money from these concerts?

A: No; in fact, usually it’s the opposite in that we spend money.  The suggested donation amount goes to directly to the artists.  We do it because we enjoy live music and it's an opportunity to support talented artists. Having guests participate in our potlucks keeps our costs down.